Tag Archives: Anthology

For The First Time Anthology by Alessandra Torre, Kim Karr, Sarah Castille and more-Review and Book Tour

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FOR THE FIRST TIME anthology by Alessandra Torre, Kim Karr, Sarah Castille and more-Review and Book Tour

 

FOR THE FIRST TIME anthology
Release Date: January 12, 2016

 

99¢ ebook  Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ B&N / KOBO / itunes /

Release Date: January 12, 2016

You never forget your first time…

A brand new anthology of original, never-before-read stories from today’s hottest authors, including:

Alessandra Torre, Kim Karr, Jen Frederick, Alexa Riley, Lynda Chance, Sarah Castille, Nina Lane, CJ Roberts, Anna Zaires, Nikki Sloane, Cynthia Sax, Avery Aster, Pam Godwin, Skye Warren, Julia Sykes, Cynthia Rayne, Jenika Snow, Debra Presley, Shoshanna Evers, Tamsen Parker, and Nina Levine!

From young heartbreak to a virginity auction, from the chance meeting to the happily ever after, twenty-one exclusive stories explore first love in all its forms. This set includes almost 200,000 words of steamy encounters and sweet romance.

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REVIEW: FOR THE FIRST TIME is a collection of twenty one never before released short stories and novellas from existing series or stand alone tales by some of your favorite authors. Some of the stories contain graphic sexual text and language as well as M/F, M/F/M or F/F sexual situations and taboo relationships; most are written from first person point of view. This is a collection of contemporary, UF and Sci-Fi romance story lines with a bit of naughty.

Each short story had its’ own positives and negatives. My star rating ran from 2.5 to 4 stars for the individual novellas. While I enjoyed most of the stories, I did have a few issues (including poor story telling quality or the disconcerting premise) with a small number of the short stories.

Take your time. I did a quick breakdown of each short story premise.

Copy supplied by the promoter.

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SOLE by Alessandra Torre

A short story focusing on Cole Masten and Summer Jenkins from Torre’s HOLLYWOOD DIRT, and their three year old daughter’s birthday party. The steam and heat between our leading couple has never wavered, and is hotter and sexier than ever. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

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BEGGING FOR MORE by Kim Karr

A quick story focusing on James Ashton and Victoria Secret’s model Lindsay Mills first introduced in Kim Karr’s stand alone story line TOXIC and the Tainted Love Duet-Blow and Crush. Our couple take an unexpected trip to Vegas where the morning after isn’t quite what they expected and more. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

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HEARTBREAK by Skye Warren

A  prequel story focusing on two teenagers in foster care-Blue and Hannah. Blue’s reputation as a killer has preceded his introduction to his new foster care facility but Hannah finds her guardian angel-a hero- in the young man accused of such a hideous crime when she becomes the victim of the foster care system. Blue and Hannah’s story continues in BETTER WHEN IT HURTS released June 2015.

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NAUGHTY WISHES by Sarah Castille

Dan and Kylie’s marriage is dying; their love for one another nothing more than a far off glimmer; Dan offers up a once in a lifetime opportunity to add some spark into their boring marriage-a threesome with town’s hot new dentist.-a man who likes a little kink in his life. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

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HIS FIRST AND ONLY by Alexa Riley

A second chance story line between Vegas showgirl/ headliner Tiffany Smith (aka Foxy Bow) ,and billionaire casino owner Ethan who first met in the foster care system ten years earlier. Ten years may have passed but the love between Tiffany and Ethan has only grown stronger. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

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DECADENT KNIGHTS by Julia Sykes

Decadent Knights is a short story from Julia Sykes’ IMPOSSIBLE series focusing on the men and women of the BDSM Club Decadence. Lydia is a former sex slave and submissive, her new Master Smith James-a former FBI agent and the man who is responsible for Lydia’s physical and mental health is looking to add another Dom into the relationship. Read Lydia and Smith’s story in KNIGHT Impossible #4 released in 2013. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

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A LAKE GEORGE CHRISTMAS by Debra Presley

A short story from Presley’s NUCCI SECURITIES focusing on pop star Abby Murphy and the love of her life Danny Nucci. Their first Christmas together finds a profession of forever and their continuing happily ever after. Abby and Danny’s full story can be found in FINDING US –Nucci Securities #1. Contains graphic sex and erotic sex scenes.

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ADVENT by Nina Lane

A short story focusing on the earlier relationship between Liv and Dean from Nina Lane’s SPIRAL OF BLISS series. It is the Christmas holidays and Dean has invited Liv to Paris but Liv isn’t willing to give up everything for a couple of weeks in the City of Light. ADVENT looks at Past Firsts and Future First Memories of Liv and Dean. Contains graphic sex and erotic sex scenes.

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LOOKING FOR A COMPLICATION by Tamsen Parker

An F/F short story featuring clinical trial administrator Kinsey Malone, and med student Astrid Zhao. Astrid is a lesbian who is attracted to Kinsey but Kinsey is ambivalent about her sexual status. Contains scenes of spanking, and F/F sexual situations.

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TEST DRIVING THE BILLIONAIRE by Cynthia Sax

A short story focusing on tattooed billionaire Drift Dornan, and his personal assistant Cassie aka Wrench. Cassie is a virgin, in love with her billionaire boss Drift Dornan, and is hoping the man feels the same way about her. Contains graphic sexual language and text, as well as a number of double entendres and sexual references to cars and motorcycles. TEST DRIVING THE BILLIONAIRE is a stand alone novella from Cynthia Sax

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DELAY OF GAME by Jen Frederick

DELAY OF GAME is a friends to lovers short story focusing on Wyatt Majors, and his best friend Lisle Cunningham. For years Wyatt and Lisle have suffered in silence; kept their love for one another a secret but a secret that is only known to the couple in question. When Lisle decides it is time to move on, Wyatt realizes it is time to claim the woman that he loves. The sex scenes are intimate without the over the top graphic text and language. DELAY OF GAME may be part of Jen’s GRIDIRON series but I cannot confirm or deny.

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HER FIRST CHOICE by Lynda Chance

Twenty six year old biker Tyler Copeland, and twenty three year old Whitney a story of second chances of sorts. Whitney is a young woman who just discovered her boyfriend of four years had been cheating so our heroine is out for revenge. Meeting Tyler Copeland, her almost one night fling from years before, finds Whitney facing all of her hard fought fears and emotions. Contains some sexually graphic scenes without the over the top erotic imagery. HER FIRST CHOICE is a short story that covers approximately a year in time.

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SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL by Cynthia Rayne

Dolly Perkins and her son are on the run from her abusive husband; the Dixie Mafia protects their own and her husband Clayton Perkins is a card carrying member but a member no longer in good standing. When enforcer Byron Beauregard tracks down our heroine, she is surprised at the message he brings. The lone $ex scene is mostly implied. SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL reads like a prequel storyline that ends without satisfaction.

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TRAILER PARK EDEN by CJ Roberts

Seventeen year old disabled twins Parker and Kylee James. Kylee is blind; and Parker is deaf. Both live in a trailer with their abusive father who spends most of his time at the bottom of a bottle. TRAILER PARK EDEN touches on taboo subjects that may offend some readers-you have been warned !

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IT TAKES TWO by Nikki Sloane

Nina Hale is down on her luck and needs a quick influx of cash-and making a porn video is at the top of her list. Contains sexually graphic language, anal sex, and M/F/M sexual situations. IT TAKE TWO is the prequel to Nikki Sloane’s BLINDFOLD CLUB erotic series.

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HEART OF EVE by Pam Godwin

Evie is the only surviving woman in a post apocalyptic war following a plague, nineteen months earlier that all but destroyed the world’s population. Many that survived are no longer human but giant insect like creatures that prey on the humans that do remain. Roark is a priest; Evie’s protector and guardian; and the man who is tempted to break all of his vows. Short on supplies, Evie and Roarke leave their underground sewer in search of goods but come face to face with creatures above. HEART OF EVE falls somewhere in the timeline between book one Dead of Eve and book two Blood of Eve in Pam Godwin’s Trilogy of Eve series. The lone sex scenes is intimate and seductive without the use of over the top graphic erotic sexual imagery.

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STEAL MY BREATH by Nina Levine

Bar owner Luke Hardy and waitress /wanna be author Callie have been eyeing each other for close to a year but Luke has a secret-one that will break Callie’s heart in an instant-once it is revealed. The short story ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-there is more story to tell. Contains a provocative sex scenes without the erotic factor. STEAL MY BREATH is a prequel short story-Callie and Luke’s full length novel comes out in 2016

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RAPUNZEL’S FIRST KNIGHT by Shoshanna Evers

A quick re-invent for adults of the fairy tale featuring the princess Rapunzel, and her hero Sir Jonathon. No sex scenes but features a very naïve princess who is taught the differences between a man and a woman.

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SWEPT AWAY by Anna Zaires

Delia is a human female, and Arus is a Krinar. Delia believes her hero is a mythological god come to rescue her from the raging storms. SWEPT AWAY is a short story from Anna Zaires’s sci-fi romance Krinar Chronicles-The Krinar are an advanced race of beings from another galaxy who have taken control of Earth. The lone sex scene is seductive and romantic without the use of erotic language or text.

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UNIQUE by Avery Aster

UNIQUE is a novella from the author’s MANHATTANITES erotic, romance series. For followers of the series, KiKi Izatt is Taddy Brill’s assistant first revealed in Unscrupulous. UNIQUE follows the trail of blood diamonds from Sierra Leone to Paloma Gems, Brill Inc, Truman Hotels and The Style Gala where Kiki finds herself a victim of a kidnapping. Contains sexually graphic language and text. UNIQUE will be release in a full length story line in April 2016

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OWNED by Jenika Snow

Rose Jonathan needed money. She signed up for an exclusive auction where by she would sell her virginity to the highest bidder. Enter Jaxon Caldwell, Rose’s boss, and the man who would claim Rose as his own. Contains oral sex, spanking, graphic sexual language and text.

 

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What Happens Under the Mistletoe Anthology by Sabrina Jeffries, Karen Hawkins, Candace Camp & Meredith Duran

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WHAT HAPPENS UNDER THE MISTLETOE anthology by Sabrina Jeffries, Karen Hawkins, Candace Camp & Meredith Duran-a review

What Happens Under the Mistletoe

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository / BAM

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 27, 2015

In this all-new story collection sparkling with sexy charm and heartwarming wit, four beloved bestselling authors reveal the mix-ups and make-ups, the missed chances and golden opportunities that come but once a year.

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MY OVERVIEW: WHAT HAPPENS UNDER THE MISTLETOE is a collection of four holiday-themed historical romance novellas: two storylines focus on second chance romances, while the other two look at cases of mistaken beliefs and a case of mistaken identity. Because of the length of each novella, all of the romances are insta-lust or love; the $ex scenes are limited without the use of graphic sexual language. All of the leading characters befit the time period, while only one novella uses language of the time.

Anthologies are difficult to review due in part to a lack of previous knowledge when some of the novellas are part of an existing series. I am aware that Sabrina Jeffries and Karen Hawkins’s offerings are part of ongoing series but I was unable to confirm the connection for Candace Camp or Meredith Duran.

WHAT HAPPENS UNDER THE MISTLETOE is an entertaining anthology with Christmas/holiday themed novellas for your reading pleasure.

•••••••••••

THE HEIRESS AND THE HOTHEAD by Sabrina Jeffries

Stunned by the heat of an unexpected kiss on a cold winter’s eve, two strangers from vastly different worlds turn hotheaded principles into burning passion in Sabrina Jeffries’s delightful yuletide story, The Heiress and the Hothead.

REVIEW:

THE HEIRESS AND THE HOTHEAD is a novella from Sabrina Jeffries SINFUL SUITORS historical romance series ( a spin off from the Duke’s Men series). This is journalist/writer Lord Stephen Corry, and American heiress/mill owner Amanda Keane’s storyline. Amanda is the sister of artist Jeremy Keane (The Art of Sinning #1). THE HEIRESS AND THE HOTHEAD can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

The storyline focuses on the unsafe working conditions in the cotton mills of England, and Stephen’s attempts to bring the atrocities to the public’s attention by reporting and investigating the people and workers. Enter Amanda Keane, an American mill owner who views Stephen’s work as attacks against all mill owners including herself. But a mill fire finds our couple trapped following the rescue of a young boy, and a profession of love and a possible future are made in the heat of the moment.

THE HEIRESS AND THE HOTHEAD is a quick read with a little bit of romance, conflict and a happily ever after. The premise is interesting with a holiday theme; the characters are familiar, colorful and entertaining; the romance is quick to develop- the lone $ex scene is mostly implied with no graphic imagery or text.

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TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT by Karen Hawkins

In the snowy Scottish countryside, Karen Hawkins’s rakish duke has an unforgettable holiday encounter in Twelve Kisses when the alluring lady he surprises under the mistletoe is not who he expected, but a long-lost love with a score to settle.

REVIEW: TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT is a Scottish, historical second chance romance between the Fourth Duke of Rothesay Marcus Sutherland, and Lady Kenna Montrose. The novella is part of Karen Hawkin’s Oxenburg Princes series as Crown Prince Nikolai Romanovin, and Grand Duchess Natasha Nikolaevna play a small supporting role throughout the story. TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

The storyline focuses on the rekindling of a relationship between Kenna and Marcus that was destroyed ten years earlier through misunderstanding and male pride. A winter storm finds our couple trapped in a stranger’s bawdy love nest after Marcus is thrown from his horse on way to Kenna’s family cottage. What ensues are Kenna’s attempts at reconciliation, while Marcus continues to find fault with the way their previous relationship ended. TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT finds our couple stranded together in a cottage completely bedecked for romance and $ex, including some fanciful and graphic paintings upon the walls.

Karen Hawkins adds a little bit of fun and romance with the addition of TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT where the conflict between sparring lovers is easily resolved with a few well-chosen words leading to a happily ever after. Once again, the $ex scene is mostly implied with no graphic imagery or text. The characters are familiar and colorful; the storyline is entertaining- there is plenty of back and forth, accusations, and questions about love and loss.

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BY AN OTHER NAME by Candace Camp

In By Any Other Name, Edinburgh is aglitter for Christmastime as Candace Camp sends a curious gentleman in hot pursuit of an intriguing lady in disguise—one who refuses to reveal her true identity, though she fears he has already stolen her heart with his kiss.

REVIEW:

BY ANY OTHER NAME by Candace Camp is a storyline of mistaken identity between Rylla Campbell and Gregory Rose. Dressed as a young man Rylla hunts for her runaway, missing eighteen year old in saloons and gaming halls wherein she will meet Gregory Rose-the man who will come to her aid, and steal her heart but a man who is lead to believe Rylla is someone else. With Gregory’s help, Rylla goes in search of her brother only to discover that her brother is already on his way home.

Candace Camp weaves a little bit of mystery and intrigue into an historical romance where our heroine fails to reveal her true identity allowing for a series of mishaps and perceived betrayal. The romance is played out while our couple are on the hunt; like the other storylines the $ex scene is mostly implied without the use of graphic language or imagery.

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SWEET RUIN by Meredith Duran

In Sweet Ruin, will the festive spirit of the season sweep Meredith Duran’s feisty heroine beneath the mistletoe—and back into the arms of the dashing rogue whose carelessness soiled her reputation and sent her into exile in London?

REVIEW:

SWEET RUIN by Meredith Duran is a storyline of second chances between Georgiana Trent, and Lucas Godwin. Two years earlier, Lucas walked out of Georgie’s life without saying good bye or an explanation as to why he ran. Fast forward to present day wherein Lucas has been hired by Georgie’s father to search for a ‘stolen’ letter that may or may not be have taken by one of the holiday guests. What ensues is a rekindling romance between Georgie and Lucas where the truth finds our heroine ready to move on from her family home.

Meredith Duran weaves a Christmas tale of lost love, intrigue and mystery where everyone is suspect in the case of a missing letter, but no one is aware that of the investigation or that anything is wrong. The collection of secondary and supporting characters reads like a game of CLUE but the guilty party has not returned home for the holidays. Again, the lone $ex scene is mostly implied.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Down the Rabbit Hole – Anthology – a Review

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Down the Rabbit Hole – Anthology – a Review

 

Down the Rabbit HoleAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description
You’re late for a very important date…
 
Enter a wonderland of mesmerizing tales. It’s a place that’s neither here nor there, where things are never quite as they seem. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s whimsical masterpiece, ranging from the impossible to the mad to the curiouser, these stories will have you absolutely off your head.
 
Don’t be afraid to follow them…

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE

Contains:
Wonderment in Death by J. D. Robb
Alice and the Earl in Wonderland by Mary Blayney
iLove by Elaine Fox
A True Heart by Mary Kay McComas
Fallen by R. C. Ryan
Review:

Down the Rabbit Hole is an anthology loosely based on a Alice in Wonderland theme, consisting of 5 authors, including J.D. Robb and an In Death novella.   I will be writing a review on Wonderment in Death by Robb, as most of you know, I am an In Death fanatic. I will briefly touch base on the other 4 novellas in this anthology.

Wonderment in Death by J.D. Robb

I really do enjoy Robb’s novellas, which gives us more of Eve and Roarke. Anything I can get my hands on that is part of this fantastic series, and time with Eve and Roarke, makes me happy. In Wonderment in Death, Eve must find a dangerous killer, who uses his hypnotic powers & drugs, to make people commit murder. A woman still grieving over the loss of her parents, goes to visit her brother with exciting news about her upcoming marriage. He ends up dead, and she throws herself off the roof to her death. It is up to Eve Dallas, with the help of her gorgeous hubby Roarke, and her team to find out why. Will Eve be able to find out the why and who? Your kidding, right. Eve always finds the killers. 🙂

 

Alice and the Earl in Wonderland by Mary Blayney

I not read this series that precedes this novella. However, it was a nice story about two people, who have difficulties with making their relationship permanent. Alice and Weston are our heroes, and as they travel separately they are whisked away 200 years into the future.

Alice especially cannot get over all the modern things, not to mention how far women have come. Weston finds some idea to help him fix his financial situation back in his time. What made this fun was watching their shocked reactions of the future. When they return to the past, Weston finds away to show Alice that her families past should not stand in the way of them getting married. This was a simple, but cute story.

 

iLove by Elaine Fox:

This was an interesting story, but it really did not keep my interest. It is about a woman who dumps her boyfriend because he pays more attention to his phone then her. He gets sucked into his phone’s ILove app and must llove to get out. This enables both the heroine and hero to learn more about themselves and each other.


A True Heart by Mary Kay McComas:

This was different and interesting, using a slight Alice in Wonderland theme, and even a Christmas Carol (revisiting her life troubles). It was an ok read.


Fallen by R. C. Ryan:

Next to the In-Death novella, this was my favorite story. I really enjoyed our heroines Colin and Beth, and the Highlander background. This was another one of those where the girl goes back in time and meets the man, she was supposed to meet, but in her current time. This was a fun read, though I wished it was a bit longer.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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On the Hunt Anthology by Alexandra Ivy, Rebecca Zanetti, Dianne Duvall and Hannah Jayne-a review

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ON THE HUNT anthology by Alexandra Ivy, Rebecca Zanetti, Dianne Duval, and Hannah Jayne- a review

On The Hunt

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository / BAM

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 25, 2015

I have a difficult time reviewing anthologies especially if some of the novellas or short stories offered are from series I have not previously read. So why, you ask, do I read and review anthologies? Well, the easy answer is that many novellas included in the anthologies are part of existing series that I read and enjoy, or are introductory storylines to new authors and series. The problem surfaces when some of the entries are from series that I have not read and therefore I feel I am out of my element because of missing information-the cohesiveness and familiarity with the characters or backstory is absent and I don’t or can’t feel a connection to the story. Saying that, ON THE HUNT is an anthology with four paranormal storylines: three from existing series and one from Rebecca Zanetti’s new Scorpius Syndrome. Each of the author’s style of writing differs in ‘feel’ and ‘emotion’; two of the novellas look at a second chance romance while one offers up the possibility for love in the afterlife.

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ON THE HUNT by Alexandra Ivy
Mika Tanner has loved Bailey Morrell, a beautiful Healer, since childhood. But his duty as a Sentinel, a supernatural guardian of an ancient race, clashed with her rebellious spirit. Now a dangerous new anarchist group not only threatens life as they know it—but any chance of their being together again…

REVIEW: ON THE HUNT is the latest entry into Alexandra Ivy’s paranormal romance THE SENTINEL series focusing on a rare supernatural species known as high bloods –blessed (and cursed) with powers and magical abilities. To protect the high bloods from themselves and discrimination from the outside world, the ‘freaks’ and ‘mutations’ are secluded in the domed city of Valhalla organized with a social infrastructure and hierarchy of Sentinels. This is Sentinel Hunter Mika Tanner and Healer Bailey Morrell’s second chance storyline.

Told from third person point of view the focus of the story is the hunt for Jacob Benson-a runaway acolyte whose mysterious disappearance will find Mika and Bailey reconnecting with one another after a ten year separation, giving the couple a second chance at happiness and love. While Mika searches for Jacob, Bailey will become the target of a cult-like group determined to eradicate the supernatural powers.

ON THE HUNT is a story of conflict: Bailey and her need to run from Mika; and a new enemy bent on destroying anyone considered a ‘freak’ and ‘mutation’. The premise is engaging and entertaining; the characters are animated and confident; the romance is a reconnection between two lost souls. If you are a fan of THE SENTINEL series by Alexandra Ivy-you don’t want to miss out on this installment.

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SCORPIUS RISING by Rebecca Zanetti
While searching for a meteorite, Nora Mendina is arrested by her sheriff ex-husband—who’s only gotten hotter than the Nevada desert since she last saw him. When the meteorite breaks open, the few survivors gain extraordinary powers, unleashing a crazed super genius killer. Can Nora and her ex stop the murders…while igniting a new love affair?

REVIEW: SCORPIUS RISING is the first installment in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult The Scorpius Syndrome cross genre (sci-fi/UF/Dystopian) romance series focusing on a biological pandemic that is about to sweep the world. This is Agent and Presidential advisor Deacon McDougall, and microbiologist Dr. Nora Medina’s second chance story that introduces the background information and the resulting fall out from exposure to an unknown bacteria- from space.

Told from third person point of view SCORPIUS RISING reveals the transmission process, resulting side effects, and potential future ramifications of a bacteria that could very well be the next big thing in biological warfare. Deacon McDougall goes on the hunt for the woman he left behind eight years before, in the hopes his ex-wife has the capability of finding a way to stop the virulent strain of bacteria now known as the Scorpius.

SCORPIUS RISING looks at the possibility of a catastrophic disaster if an unknown biological organism makes its’ way to Earth, and the resulting death toll in a very short time. The premise is both startling and sensational; the characters are intense; the romance is provocative, highly sexual, and hot. My only complaint is what I consider the ‘over the top’ after affects showing in some of the Scorpius victims. SCORPIUS RISING is a great start to a new series!!

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PHANTOM EMBRACE by Dianne Duvall
Immortal Yuri Sokolov was born with the ability to see spirits, yet he’s never seen one as lovely as Cat Seddon, the woman who haunts his home and his dreams. But amid their star-crossed love, a new danger may have Yuri facing a different kind of eternity.

REVIEW: PHANTOM EMBRACE is book 5.5 in Diane Duvall’s adult Immortal Guardians paranormal, romance series. This is immortal Guardian Yuri Sokolov and Cat Seddon’s storyline. Yuri has the power to see spirits, and Cat is a ghost who haunts Yuri’s nights and dreams.

Told from third person point of view PHANTOM EMBRACE focuses on the continuing hunt for the evil vampires but a new threat finds the Guardians and Yuri facing a different kind of immortality-one that seems to please Yuri more than it should. PHANTOM EMBRACE also follows the building of an improbable relationship between Yuri and Cat. While Cat remains in spirit form Yuri is unable to touch the woman with whom he is falling in love.

Dianne Duvall is a gifted writer who allows for the probability that not everyone is aware of the series history thusly imparting important backstory and series information wherever possible allowing for cohesion and familiarity. For readers new to the series, there is no confusion; the storyline flows smoothly with great characters, friendly camaraderie, and seductive romance. Great storyline that packs a punch.

••••••••••••••

STAKE OUT by Hannah Jayne
Vampire fashion designer Nina LaShay has a lot on her plate—just two days until fashion week and the model who was flirting with her photographer boyfriend is now a corpse in her studio. But when dead turns into undead and dangerous, Nina must find out who’s responsible…before the beautiful baby vamp takes too many bites out of the Big Apple.

REVIEW: STAKE OUT is number 6.5 in Hannah Jayne’s UNDERWORLD DETECTIVE AGENCY paranormal series. This is fashion designer/vampire Nina LaShay’s storyline.

Told from third person point of view STAKE OUT follows a series of gruesome killings-ones that Nina believes have been perpetrated by a new born vampire- a Halfling with the need to feed-and a woman who was previously under Nina’s employ. Preparing for fashion week finds Nina struggling to uncover the person responsible for the death of many of Nina’s models, and the arrival of a new fashion competitor on the runway.

I am not familiar with this particular series therefore if any of the characters have recurring roles throughout the series, of this, I am not aware. Nina’s nephew Vlad is quite the ‘elegant’ vampire- a throwback to the original era of vampire dress, while Pike (a bird shifter) has taken ahold of Nina’s heart. STAKE OUT is a cute story with some humorous moments, action, suspense, and graphic violence but no sexual scenarios. The romance is limited byway of a stolen kiss and a profession of attraction.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Capitol Danger : Romantic Suspense Anthology by JD Tyler, Nancy Northcott, Suzanne Ferrell & Jeanne Adams-a review

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CAPITOL DANGER: A Romantic Suspense Anthology by JD Tyler,  Nancy Northcott, Suzanne Ferrell & Jeanne Adams-a review

 

Capitol Danger

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 25, 2015

A romantic suspense anthology like no other! Four stories, one event and four dangerous missions on the same night.

It’s Inauguration Night. Glamorous balls throughout the nation’s capital celebrate a landmark event. The town and nation are in the mood to celebrate. But not everyone is so pleased.

A home-grown sect known as the Red Mantle plan to make it an event to remember for their own reasons. As their assault succeeds it will be up to those attending the ball to step up and face the fanatics, or die trying.

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UNMASKED: An Edgars Family Novella-by Suzanne Ferrell

Abigail Whitson and Luke Edgars are working an undercover operation during the inaugural ball in an attempt to discover who has stolen land to air missiles before they can be sold to a broker—their target for the night. When the playboy arms dealer arrives at the ball, his bodyguard turns out to be someone from Luke’s past.
That isn’t the only surprise of the night. When the ball is invaded by terrorists, Abby and Luke find themselves trying to extract the arms dealer from the fray to protect their mission, while they also risk their lives to protect innocents from the carnage.

DEATH UNDER GLASS, A Faithful Defenders Novella by Jeanne Adams

Edward Millner and his girlfriend Retta Geminous, are celebrating a glittering inaugural. When Red Mantle terrorists take the ballroom, both bullets and glass start flying. Edward and Retta help the agents still standing retake the ballroom, but casualties are high. Can Edward face his demons and use his former Special Forces medical skills to save the night? Can Retta and Edward overcome their troubled hearts in the face of certain death?

DANGER’S EDGE, An Arachnid Agency Novella by Nancy Northcott

When terrorists disrupt the inaugural ball, new Arachnid Agency operative Kelsey Mitchell tables her planned undercover operation and works to bring help into the hotel. Her only ally is Greg Reed, an FBI agent on medical leave after being shot during a robbery. Kelsey dreads making a novice mistake, and Greg is afraid he’s lost his edge.
Attraction flares between them though Kelsey knows the Feds disapprove of people who work for her freewheeling agency. Together, she and Greg must fight their demons and the terrorists to gather intel for the FBI and create a safe landing zone for a rescue force. Can they succeed against overwhelming odds, or will the battle cost one or both their lives—or their hearts?

LETHAL TARGET: An Armed & Deadly Novella by J.D. Tyler

FBI Special Agent Dalton McCoy is playing a deadly game, working undercover for Methan, leader of the extremist terrorist group, the Red Mantle. He’ll stop at nothing to keep Methan and his men from achieving their goal of bringing down key members of the government. When Dalton’s plans come to an unexpected head at the glittering inaugural ball, he doesn’t count on tenacious reporter Jolie Montfort placing herself in Methan’s line of fire as well. Now the agent must take out the terrorist leader and get them both to safety before it’s too late…

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REVIEW:

NOTE: Because all four storylines in the anthology CAPITOL DANGER are interconnected revolving around the same set of circumstances and premise, I will review the anthology as a whole, not by individual storylines or authors.

CAPITOL DANGER is an adult, contemporary, romantic suspense anthology that follows the events on the Inauguration Night of the first woman president of the United States of America. The sect known as Red Mantle will stop at nothing to destroy and take down everyone connected to the new female President, and anyone who stands in their way is collateral damage. The storylines cover a timeline of approximately 1-2 hours.

The four separate but integrated storylines, each with a different leading couple, run parallel to one another. Most of the heroes and heroines (as well as a number of operatives) are current or former members of the military CIA, FBI, Special Ops or Dark Ops organizations hired to work undercover to serve and protect. All, if not most, of the leading characters are unaware of the events unfolding in the other storylines; each will have to contend with the massacre that is about to take place within their own Inauguration Ball. Two of the novellas focus on escaping the fallout of the death and destruction; two follow the attempts to survive under mounting murderous rage and a growing number of dead and dying. The anthology contains scenes of graphic language and violence; there are no sexual scenarios.

Three of the novellas-Unmasked by Suzanne Ferrell, Death Under Glass by Jeanne Adams, and Lethal Target by JD Tyler-are installments in existing series; Danger’s Edge by Nancy Northcott is the first in her new Arachnid Agency series. CAPITOL DANGER, as a whole, can be read as a stand alone; the reader will not need prior information from the existing series to understand the premise but saying that there is some history between several of our leading couples who met in previous storylines.

CAPITOL DANGER is a dramatic and intense, engaging and riveting anthology of suspense, mystery, action and drama. There is romance, love, a couple of happily ever afters, and a look to the future for a couple thrown together by a storage closet and fate. All four storylines focus on the murderous and vengeful actions of a misogynistic, religious zealot whose followers are willing to die for the cause. I see the potential for the continuation of some of the storylines-perhaps there is a CAPITOL DANGER II in the development. CAPITOL DANGER seamlessly blends four different styles of writing into an exciting storyline of intrigue and suspense.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Edge of Darkness Anthology by Christine Feehan, Maggie Shayne & Lori Herter-a review

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EDGE OF DARKNESS Anthology by Christine Feehan, Maggie Shayne & Lori Herter-a review

Edge of Darkness

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository/ BAM

ABOUT THE BOOK : Release Date August 4, 2015

Dark Crime by Christine Feehan

Blaze knows who killed her father and she has merciless plans for payback. Until a phone call from a seductive stranger pleads with her to wait. Retribution is in his blood, too. Now, he and Blaze will be united in the blood of the guilty. Tonight, vengeance is theirs.

REVIEW: DARK CRIME is the latest installment (26.5) in Christine Feehan’s CARPATHIAN paranormal romance DARK series and reads like a full length storyline. This is Carpathian Maxim Volkov and bar owner Blaze McGuire’s storyline. DARK CRIME can be read as a stand alone (with some difficulty) but if you are not familiar with Ms. Feehan’s DARK series some background information may be necessary for cohesion and familiarity with the Carpathian history. The storyline takes place in Chicago, Illinois.

Christine Feehan introduces several new characters to her series with Maxim and Blaze’s storyline. Maxim is an ancient, who along with his fellow Carpathians Tariq Asenguard and the triplets- Mataias, Lojos and Tomas- find themselves on the hunt for a master vampire whose minions are wreaking havoc with business owners, the homeless and missing children. Blaze and her best friend Emeline are the vampire’s next intended victims.

DARK CRIME is an erotic paranormal romance with scenarios of graphic violence involving women and children, as well as the usual vampire blood shed, death and destruction. The $ex scenes are provocative and erotic-another ancient Carpathian has found his lifemate following hundreds of years of no emotions and no color; the romance is very quick to build and easily accepted by the storyline heroine; the revelation of the master vampire brings with it a former enemy who has made a pact with the devil.

Sadly, I do have an issue with Christine Feehan’s lack of originality when it comes to her storyline character’s names. This has been a major bone of contention for me throughout all of her series as well as using the same names between series e.g. Stefan has been used 3 times in the DARK series, as well as in 3 of her 4 other series. Duplication of names and their derivatives is a constant in the DARK series: Matias twice; Matt /Matthew 4 times; Henry and derivatives 4 times; John 4 times; Paul 4 times; Peter 4 times; Robert or Roberto 5 times; Tom/Thomas 5 times; and the list goes on). Maxim is a name that has been used twice in the DARK series for major characters-once for an ancient Carpathian-Maxim Malinov- who turned vampire and was killed, and now with Maxim Volkov in Dark Crime. The duplication can lead to confusion, especially with the similarity between surnames as well.

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Dead by Twilight by Maggie Shayne

Bloodsuckers may be an accepted minority but one of them is getting away with murder. Until a female vamp teams with a mortal detective to end the killing spree. Now the night belongs to them—and so does every pleasure and danger lurking in the shadows.

REVIEW: DEAD BY TWILIGHT is Maggie Shayne’s latest novella in her Wings in the Night: Reborn paranormal, romance series. This is vampire/cop Chloe Madison, and Officer Shepherd Daniels storyline that focuses on the formation of the Vampire Crimes Unit and the hunt for a rogue vampire on a killing spree throughout the town.

Chloe is a reluctant vampire; turned on the night of her senior prom in 1955; and a woman who refuses to be a predator in a world where vampires are at the top of the proverbial food chain. When Chloe and Shep are tasked with investigating a series of killings by a rogue vampire, Chloe knows that to reveal her true nature would mean the end to her career and a potential target on her head.

Maggie Shayne invites the reader into her entertaining world of vampires with a little bit of humor and romance; mystery and suspense. The storyline covers about 24-48 hours in the life with a prologue that looks at Chloe’s initiation into the world of vampires and blood.

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Cimarron Spirit by Lori Herter

While excavating an Anasazi ruin, archeologist Annie Carmichael uncovers the resting place of a centuries-old vampire who finds in Annie the liberating mate he has longed for. But how much is Annie expected—or willing—to surrender for the man she now desires?

REVIEW: CIMARRON SPIRIT is part 1 of Lori Herter’s paranormal Cimarron Series. This is five hundred year old vampire Rafael de la Vega, and archeologist Annie Carmichael’s story-a story of forbidden love with a slight love triangle premise.

Annie is an archeologist who has been excavating an ancient Anasazi site near Phoenix, Arizona but what Annie uncovers is nothing short of unbelievable. While living and digging on Brent Logan’s ranch, Annie finds herself torn between what is safe, and what it is she wants. Rafael de La Vega, Brent’s closest neighbor and the man with whom Brent has been in a legal tug of war, is a vampire who calls to Annie’s heart.

CIMARRON SPIRIT introduces the major characters of Lori’s Cimarron series, Rafael’s history, his years as a lone vampire, and his need for Annie Carmichael. Annie is a divorcee who was about to settle down with a man she did not love until Rafael showed her what it was like to be a part of his world.

CIMARRON SPIRIT is part one in Lori Herter’s paranormal Cimarron romance series and thusly ends rather abruptly without explanation. To read about what happens to our storyline couple Cimarron Secrets –part 2-will be released August 7, 2015.

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EDGE OF DARKNESS looks at three distinctively different writing styles from three paranormal romance authors. Feehan and Shayne offer up works from existing series, while Herter introduces a new series about vampire Rafael de la Vega. Christine Feehan’s DARK CRIMES is infinitely more detailed, and sexually graphic with scenarios of violence against women and children; Shayne and Herter barely touch upon the sexual aspects of their storylines.

I will admit my interest in this anthology has everything to do with Christine Feehan’s DARK CRIMES-a series I have been reading for a number of years. Shayne and Herter’s novellas add some quick, light reads for those that enjoy a little bit of paranormal romance without the sexually erotic factor.

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Sandy

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Cowboys for Christmas Anthology – a Review

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Cowboys for Christmas anthology – a Review

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Cowboys for ChristmasAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Description:
Claire, Georgia, and Mary Catherine couldn’t be more different, but they promised they would be there for one another no matter what. And when they all gather in Holly Hills, Texas, for Mary Catherine’s Christmas wedding, they’ll find they have one thing in common: hearts that are about to be branded—by unforgettable cowboys.

In “Love Me, Cowboy” by Terri Osburn, wallflower Claire would be more excited about the wedding if it didn’t mean running into Mary Catherine’s brother—the bull rider she once had a scorching one-night stand with…

Ivy League volleyball coach Georgia never wanted to see Holly Hills—or another cowboy—again. But a sexy veterinarian is making her rethink her vow to never marry a Texas man in “Kiss Me, Cowboy” by Liz Talley.

Claire and Georgia both think that Mary Catherine is getting hitched to the wrong man, despite how perfect he is. And in “Marry Me, Cowboy” by Kim Law, a local rancher with a wild reputation gives Mary Catherine a glimpse of what might have been—and what could still be..

 

 

Review:
Cowboys For Christmas is an anthology by three authors..Terri Osburn, Liz Talley and Kim Law. The premise of this story revolves around three childhood best friends, who come together to attend the Christmas wedding of one of them. The three stories concentrate on each of the girls; Claire, Georgia and Mary Catherine, with each having their own issues. These are pure romance storlines, that are quick and fun reads. Novellas are hard to review, as I do not want to give spoilers. I will try to give my thoughts on each novella within this anthology.

Love Me, Cowboy by Terri Osburn:
As a teenager, Claire was always conscious of her weight problem. Now years later, when she returns home, she is slim, but unconsciously does not recognize how beautiful she looks. When she sees Mary Catherine’s brother, Tyler, Claire remembers the one night years ago, when they were both drunk and had sex. Tyler is a sexy rodeo star, who has never forgotten Claire. What follows is very nice story of Tyler trying to convince Claire that she is beautiful, and he has always loved her, despite her fears about her weight. It is a cute story, both Tyler and Claire were wonderful together.

Kiss Me, Cowboy by Liz Talley:
Georgia was the poor girl of the three, but she is also the sexiest, outspoken and most successful, having been a model and volleyball coach. She has never gotten over feeling inadequate, and she wants nothing to do with her old hick town, or any cowboy. Almost immediately her car breaks down and Reed comes to her rescue. Georgia avoids him like the plague, as he is the town Vet…Mr. Nice Guy. But in Georgia’s mind, he is a cowboy and she wants out of this town as soon as Mary Catherine is married. But slowly her wall will begin to crumble, as Reed shows her how the love of one man can change everything. Reed was the perfect man for Georgia, as he was a sweetheart. Georgia was not only funny, independent, but very sexy. The two of them together were super and I loved the ending. This was my favorite short story.

Marry Me, Cowboy by Kim Law:
Mary Catherine is the bride to be. She is preparing for her marriage to Dr. Brad, who has always been her friend, and together they have planned their future. But Mary Catherine has never forgotten Jax, the town bad boy, whom her family (mostly her arrogant step mother) forced her to drop. Both Claire and Georgia try to convince Claire that Brad is not the one for her. He is career oriented, and her life would be dull, since she truly does not love him.   But she is determined to wed Brad, and not think about the sexy hot Jax. As we go down to the wire, Mary Catherine learns more about Jax, and how he has changed his life. Will she give in to her feelings or marry the safe, Brad?   You will need to read this book to find out.

Cowboys for Christmas, were three nice romances that blended together. Each author wrote their story, and it all took place within the short time prior to the wedding at Christmas. If you enjoy romances, sexy cowboys, three best friends who want their HEA, and a fast read, then look no further then Cowboys for Christmas.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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NIght Shift Anthology – a Review

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NIght Shift Anthology – Nalini Singh, Ilona Andrews, Milla Vane, LIsa Shearin a Review

 

Night ShiftAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / The Book Depository / BAM

Description:
Four masters of urban fantasy and paranormal romance plunge readers into the dangerous, captivating world unearthed beyond the dark…

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh delivers a smoldering story with Secrets at Midnight, as the scent of Bastien Smith’s elusive lover ignites a possessiveness in him that’s as feral as it is ecstatic. And now that he’s found his mate, he’ll do anything to keep her.

In #1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrews’ novella, Magic Steals, when people start going missing, shapeshifting tigress Dali Harimau and jaguar shifter Jim Shrapshire must uncover the truth about the mysterious creatures responsible.

From Milla Vane—a warrior princess must tame The Beast of Blackmoor to earn a place among her people. But she quickly discovers that the beast isn’t a monster, but a barbarian warrior who intends to do some taming himself.

It’s seer Makenna Frazier’s first day on the job at Supernatural Protection and Investigations, and her first assignment is more than she bargained for when bodyguard duty for a leprechaun prince’s bachelor party goes every which way but right in national bestselling author Lisa Shearin’s Lucky Charms.

 

 

Review:

Night Shift is an anthology with novellas by 4 authors…Nalini Singh, Ilona Andrews, Milla Vane and Lisa Shearin. Each of these authors either write Paranormal or Urban Fantasy. It is always difficult to write a review on anthologies, as there is too much risk of giving out spoilers. I will attempt to give you my thougths of each story, without telling too much

Secrets at Midnight by Nalini Singh – Ohhhh, what can I say. This is a Psy/Changeling novella and Bastien is our leopard hero. I am a freak when it comes to Psy/Changeling, and needless to say I was in my glory reading this story. Nalini never fails to amaze me at how story after story, even in a novella she can give us such a great story, a fabulous couple, and allow us to spend time with some of our old favorites, like Lucas, Dorian & Mercy. Bastien was wonderful, as I fell in love with him from the start. He was loving, and patient with Kirby, our heroine.   What mother wouldn’t want a Bastien for their daughter. Kirby was a fantastic mate for Bastien, and the story introducing her and her history was wonderful. When Bastien meets Kirby, he scents a cat, but she is human. It is Bastien who will help Kirby discover the hidden truth about her true destiny. A super fantastic story.   When I finished this book in one sitting, I had a smile on my face the rest of the day.

Magic Steals by Ilona Andrews – I am a big fan of Andrews’ Kate Daniels series, so I was looking forward to reading this one too. Jim is our hero in this book, and he has been one of the mainstays in this series. Jim is a Jaguar shifter, and Curran’s security chief. It was great for him to have his story, and I loved him with Dali, who is Tiger shifter. We started off with Dali preparing dinner for Jim, hoping this would be the night that they would take the next step. Before anything can happen, Dali’s mother comes to ask her to help find a missing person. Jim goes with Dali, who has magic abilities to help solve crimes or end curses. The mystery was very good, with a group of people ina  certain section having attacks brought on by magic. Jim and Dali must find out why and how to stop it. But the best part of this story was the humor between Dali’s family; Jim watching Dali use her magic, and learning more how she works, and Dali seeing how much Jim truly feels about her, and how well they will work together as a team. It was a great story, with a  great couple, and just plain fun.

Lucky Charms by Lisa Shearin – I have not read this author before, so I was not sure what to expect. This is part of her SPI Files series, which only has one book out. Since I did not read the first book, I am not sure if this novella will move forward or is it a prequel. SPI stands for Supernatural Protection & Investigations. There are all kinds of supernatural beings in this story, with seers, werewolves, vampires, dragons, goblins, leprechauns, elves, fae, as well as humans. Mac (Makenna Frazier) is a seer, and she is hired by SPI to help find missing supernatural beings. On her first day of the job, she is pulled into a dangerous mission, meets her hot partner, and team members, who are elves or werewolves. Though there were so many dangerous situations, there was a lot of humor in this story. This was a fun and exciting read, which has me interested to see what else is in store for this series.

The Beast of Blackmoor – Milla Vane (Meljean Brooke) – An angry young warrior asking a priestess for the goddess help to fight evil, is cursed by his disrespectful behavior. Years later, a female warrior arrives in Blackmoor to fulfill her quest from the goddess to tame the beast.

Mala is our heroine, and she is determined to complete the quest given to her by the goddess, so that she can go home and protect her family and townsfolk. Mala is a great warrior, who has faith that her goddess will protect her along the way. The beast is the warrior who has been been “forsaken” yet he battles the monsters to help the town. Kavik is our hero, and when Mala meets him, he is cold, but knows she is the one who will end his curse. When Mala tells him she is to tame the beast, which is him, he expects the taming to be cruel, and refuses to believe otherwise. Together, despite his mistrust, they must fight the evil creatures, and Kavik must learn to find a way to trust Mala and change the curse. Good story, however there some parts I did not care how it was handled.

Overall, this was a great anthology, and for me, I was thrilled to get more of Nalini Singh and Ilona Andrews, as well as learning about two other authors to check out for the future.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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